Two-time biathlon gold medalist Laura Dahlmeier killed in mountaineering accident

German biathlon champion Laura Dahlmeier, who captured two gold medals at the 2018 Olympics, died in mountaineering accident in remote range of Pakistan, officials said Wednesday.

The 31-year-old Dahlmeier was going up Laila Peak in the Karakoram mountain range at about noon local time Monday when she was struck by falling rocks, according to statements by her team and Alpine Club of Pakistan Vice President Karrar Haidri.

Laura Dahlmeier after crossing the finish line during the Women’s Biathlon 10km Pursuit at the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympic Games.Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images

The accident happened at about 5,700 meters of elevation and her “climbing partner called emergency services” immediately, the athlete’s team said.

But “due to the remoteness of the area, a rescue helicopter could not reach the scene” until Tuesday morning, her team said.

“Laura died doing what she loved most — pushing her limits in the high mountains,” Haidri said. “Her strength, determination, and passion have left an indelible mark on both the sporting and mountaineering communities.”

Laura Dahlmeier smiling
Laura Dahlmeier at BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon Kontiolahti on Nov. 29, 2024 in Kontiolahti, Finland. Kevin Voigt / Getty Images file

The German captured a pair of Olympic titles in PyeongChang 2018, in the 7.5-kilometer sprint and 10-kilometer pursuit. She also took home a bronze in the 15 kilometers that winter from South Korea.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.




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